Age gracefully on your own terms with Home Care from Mind & Mobility

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Your top choice for compassionateIn-Home Care in Grand Rapids, MI

It's often said that the golden years of your life are the most enjoyable. For most older adults in the U.S., it's a time to unwind, reflect, and live in the comfort of familiar surroundings. And that's how it should be - most senior citizens in America worked hard to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise their families. Shouldn't they be able to age with grace and dignity at home?

The answer is undoubtedly "yes," but as seniors age, they sometimes need assistance to live independently. Unfortunately, many older adults are unable to rely on adult children for help due to busy schedules, a lack of expertise, or both. That's where Mind & Mobility's home care in Grand Rapids, MI begins to make a lot of sense.

Our in-home care services cater to those who want to stay in their homes as they age but require ongoing care that their loved ones cannot provide. Nowadays, most seniors prefer to live away from long-term care facilities and closer to their home where they feel most at ease.

If you or your senior loved one wants to thrive in their own house and avoid care facilities, in-home care is an effective, safe way to give family and friends the care they need when they need it the most.

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Home Care Grand Rapids, MI

The Mind & Mobility Difference

Mind & Mobility is a home care agency that takes pride in helping seniors enjoy life at home with grace and comfort. One of the biggest reasons why so many seniors and their families choose us is that our senior caregivers in Grand Rapids, MI, do more than just change bedsheets and prepare meals. They make it a point to provide compassionate care and connect with patients on a personal level.

Instead of eliminating independence from our senior population in Florida, we believe in maximizing it - a goal that's not always supported by assisted living facilities and nursing homes. In fact, those locations are often overpriced, understaffed, and known for the spread of disease. Senior care from Mind & Mobility provides a more emotionally and financially relieving option, whether you need a little help around the house or more involved services like companion care or dementia care.

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What is Senior Care in Grand Rapids, MI?

Many older adults in the United States prefer to age at home, as it offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity. According to an AARP report, three out of four adults aged 50 and above wish to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

However, as adults approach their 60s and 70s, some may require assistance around the house, especially when family members are too busy or live far away. The truth is that the natural process of aging can make it challenging to continue living at home. Simple tasks like running errands become more difficult due to mobility issues. Preparing healthy meals and keeping track of medications and appointments can also become a challenge. Safety becomes a concern, and family members may worry about the well-being of their loved ones.

In these situations, in-home care is often a perfect fit. It allows seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

Mind & Mobility provides a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they receive the help they need to remain independent. If you have a senior loved one who needs some extra help to stay happy and healthy, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even from afar.

Some of the most common home care services offered at Mind & Mobility include.

  • Light Housekeeping
  • Nutrition Monitoring
  • Assistance with Technology
  • Meal Preparation
  • Dressing, Bathing, & Grooming
  • Medication Reminders
  • Laundry Services
  • Activity Escorts
  • Much More
 Senior Care Grand Rapids, MI
 In-home Care Grand Rapids, MI

Did You Know?

U.S. adults over the age of 60 have a 59% higher chance of being unable to perform daily routines and activities if they're lonely.

Our in-home care services are covered by medical insurance, long-term care policies, and private pay. Members have the freedom to choose their own caregiver.

Curious if home care in Grand Rapids, MI is right for you or your older loved one? Contact our office in Florida today for a no-pressure discovery call to learn more. If you or your loved one is ready to live life to the fullest, getting in-home care from Mind & Mobility is a quick, easy three-step process.

1. Speak to a Care Representative

One of our skilled care representatives will speak with you in person or over the phone and help you select the best home care plan to keep your loved one happy at home.

  Senior Caregivers Grand Rapids, MI

2. Go Over Your Care Plan

A local care professional from Mind & Mobility will travel to your home and sit with you one-on-one to discuss the details of your care plan.

 Companion Care Grand Rapids, MI

3. Thrive from the Comfort of Home

Once your care plan is selected, you will have the pleasure of watching your senior loved one enjoy an independent life at home with the help of a compassionate caregiver.

Home Care Grand Rapids, MI

Companion Care You Can Count On

Aging in place refers to the practice of aging adults living in their homes as they grow old. Studies show that around 77% of retirees prefer to stay in their homes for as long as possible, and home care can be an excellent way to bridge the gap between receiving elder care and staying at home.

Allowing your aging loved ones to maintain their independence is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. This can contribute to their overall health and well-being, as opposed to a living facility where they may feel powerless and depressed. Unfortunately, these facilities often take away a senior's ability to do simple things like cooking for themselves, scheduling visits with family and friends, and even bathing in the comfort of their own homes.

Home care in Grand Rapids, MI, including companion care services, is designed to provide both medical and non-medical solutions that your senior needs in order to maintain their independence. That way, your senior doesn't have to destabilize their life or adjust to a new way of living away from home.

Mind & Mobility companion care incorporates a number of different services, including.

  • Spending Time with Your Senior
  • Conversation
  • Homemaking Support
  • Planning Outings
  • Mobility Assistance
  • Help with Nutrition
  • Staying Active
  • Memory Skills and Games
  • Running Errands
  • More

Getting Started with Companion Care from Mind & Mobility

To learn more about our companion care services, you can contact any of our nine locations in Florida to request a care consultation with one of our representatives. During your consultation, we'll assess your needs to ensure that we provide the right caregiver at the right time to meet your specific requirements.

Doing so helps us ensure that we get it right the first time. We'll also be happy to answer any questions you may have and introduce you to the team of senior home companions who will provide you with companion care services in Florida.

Need home care companion services on short notice? As a respected senior care business with more than a decade of experience, we have access to a large pool of senior caregivers in Grand Rapids, MI who would be happy to provide you or your senior with last-minute support.

 Senior Care Grand Rapids, MI
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Take a Break with RespiteCare Services from Mind & Mobility

Taking care of a senior loved one can be a tiring and overwhelming task, particularly if the caregiver is employed full-time and has other responsibilities to handle. Taking care of an older adult in such a situation can result in caregiver burnout, which can lead to a decline in the quality of care provided and even illness. To combat this issue, many adult caregivers choose respite care as a solution instead of full-time home care in Grand Rapids, MI.

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults in the United States provide care to someone aged 50 or older. Unfortunately, many of these caregivers experience stress, fatigue, and even depression.

Respite care services offer a short-term break to family members and unpaid caregivers from their caregiving duties. This is a crucial service that benefits both seniors and their caregivers and can be arranged for a few hours or even several days, depending on their requirements.

What are the Benefits of Respite Care from Mind & Mobility?

Respite care services can have a significantly positive impact on the health of your elderly loved one, as well as your own. Whether it's for an extended period of time or just a few hours a week, respite care can help ease the burden of caregiving.

Taking some time off for yourself may seem selfish at first, but it's crucial to recharge your batteries to be able to continue providing care. Taking a short (or longer-term) break can also improve the overall quality of your care. Plus, professional respite care services offer your senior an opportunity to learn from and engage with a compassionate caregiver from Mind & Mobility.

 In-home Care Grand Rapids, MI

Some of the most common caregiving services provided by our respite care professionals include.

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Help with Dressing and Grooming
  • Bathing Assistance
  • More

Our respite care services in Florida are typically offered on a temporary basis. However, we also serve many clients who require assistance on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on their specific needs. We recognize that care needs and schedules can be subject to change, and we strive to be flexible in our approach to ensure that your and your family's needs are met.

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Three Hurdles That Family Caregivers Face

Caring for your aging parents can be a fulfilling act of love. As you reminisce about the care they gave you while growing up, you now have the opportunity to return the favor. However, providing care for loved ones can be challenging. It's important to anticipate the obstacles you may face and learn how to manage them to protect your own health and well-being.

Here are three of the toughest challenges that family caregivers have to face when caring for their senior parents or loved ones.

Enough Support

Not Enough Support

It's common to feel like you're carrying the majority of the burden when it comes to taking care of your aging parents. However, assuming that you are solely responsible for their care can be overwhelming and cause strain in other relationships. It's important to remember that caring for someone else is not a one-person job. Attempting to do so can lead to burnout, depression, and other serious health issues. It can also negatively impact the level of care your parents receive.

Enough Sleep

Not Enough Sleep

Interrupted sleep can be a problem for older adults whose circadian clock has shifted, leading them to wake up more frequently throughout the night. It can also be a result of stress and worry. If dementia is a factor, you may need to stay alert due to sundowning and wandering. Those tasks can be difficult and require a sharp mind that has had plenty of rest. In fact, getting enough sleep is crucial for your ability to provide the best care for your parents, as well as for your own physical and emotional well-being.

Enough Privacy

Not Enough Privacy

Sharing living space with your parents can compromise both your physical and emotional privacy. This is especially true if one or both of your parents have dementia, which can cause them to feel afraid or disoriented when you're not around. At the same time, your parents may also find it difficult to maintain their privacy while under your care.

That begs the question - how can you conquer the challenges that most family caregivers face on a daily basis?

In-Home Care in Grand Rapids, MI Helps Alleviate Your Burden

Mind & Mobility's in-home caregivers can be there to help you ensure the best care for your parents and a healthier life balance for yourself. Taking a break from caregiving is not just a great idea; it's essential.

Our respite care services offer you regular breaks from caregiving, which allows you to take care of yourself while enriching your parents' lives. We provide opportunities for socialization and engaging activities, along with the necessary support to ensure safety and comfort. You can rest easy knowing that your parents are in the best of hands while you take a break.

Reliable In-Home Care for Parkinson’s Disease in Florida

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition. That means that people who are affected by Parkinson’s have symptoms and difficulties that increase over time, and often in different stages. It’s a disease that affects more than 69,000 individuals in Florida. That number is expected to grow to over 120,000 people by 2030. Given that many older adults are misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed, the number of Parkinson’s patients in Florida is probably even higher.

When caring for individuals with Parkinson’s, it’s important to focus on continually adapting both the home environment and daily routines. As the patient's condition progresses, their health and abilities will change, necessitating adjustments to their care plan. Being proactive in anticipating and accommodating these changes can help to maintain their independence and quality of life for as long as possible.

If your senior loved one has Parkinson’s, there’s no doubt that you’re stressed about how to give mom or dad the best care possible. To solve this challenging problem, many adult children in Florida turn to Mind & Mobility. Our non-medical in-home caregivers work with Parkinson’s patients daily and have the compassion and commitment to care for your senior so you can breathe easier.

Mind & Mobility caregivers are trained and educated to understand the nuances of caring for a person with Parkinson’s. Some of those training highlights include:

  • Strategies to Spot and Manage Motor and Non-Motor Parkinson’s Symptoms
  • How Parkinson’s Changes and Advances Over Time
  • Fall Prevention
  • Nutrition and Diet
  • Home Safety
  • Medication Timing and Reminders
  • Light Exercises to Foster Better Balance and Mobility
  • Making Adjustments to Maintain Balance and Hand-Eye Coordination

How Mind & Mobility Caregivers Help Loved Ones with Parkinson’s

At Mind & Mobility, we know that your senior needs help to stay independent and healthy in their home. Unfortunately, having to continually adapt to the varying stages of Parkinson’s can be extremely challenging. An in-home care professional who specializes in non-medical Parkinson’s care can help make those gradual transitions easier, by providing compassionate assistance when you need it most.

As Parkinson's is a progressive condition, the care needs of your loved one will evolve as the disease advances. Initially, they may require assistance with daily errands, but this might progress to needing help with personal care and daily activities. At Mind & Mobility, we understand that each individual's care needs are unique, and we work closely with our clients to develop personalized care plans tailored to their specific requirements.

Some of the tasks that our Parkinson’s caregivers focus on include the following:

Mind & Mobility caregivers will assist and supervise your loved one as they walk around their home, helping to avoid accidents. Our caregivers can also help perform light housekeeping chores, which include picking or cleaning up potential trip hazards that seniors may not see.

When an older adult has Parkinson’s, preparing and cooking meals can be truly difficult. A non-medical in-home caregiver will help assist with meal prep and can even help your loved one eat if they’re having a tremor episode. Since medications for Parkinson’s often causes dry mouth, our caregivers will also ensure that your senior stays well hydrated to avoid dehydration.

Staying fit can be hard when you have Parkinson’s, but being physically active is important to focus on as the disease progresses. Our caregivers help seniors with Parkinson’s start and complete activities like mobility exercises that your doctor may recommend.

Caring for someone with Parkinson’s disease can be emotionally draining and physically exhausting. We provide respite care for family caregivers and peace of mind for every member of your care network, from close friends to family members.

At Mind & Mobility, our approach to non-medical Parkinson's care starts by having a complete understanding of your situation. To do that, we set up a care consultation where we learn more about you, your senior, and the scope of care needed. This important step helps us confirm that having an in-home caregiver is a good fit for your senior.

Once we know the level of care your loved one needs, we'll craft a customized in-home care plan that alleviates your stress and allows your senior to live comfortably at home. Since Parkinson’s changes over time, your in-home care plan may also change, so we can provide the best care possible.

Contact Mind & Mobility today to schedule your initial consultation and learn more about how our caregivers provide compassionate support for patients with Parkinson’s disease.

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Compassionate

Compassionate Alzheimer’s Care in Florida

Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive, debilitating condition that affects more than five million people in the U.S. In Florida alone, more than 600,000 individuals are affected. By 2030, that number is expected to increase to five million people. Like many forms of dementia, the impact of Alzheimer’s extends beyond the person diagnosed with it, leaving families in Florida with a crucial question:

“How can we give mom or dad high-quality, dependable Alzheimer’s care?”

For many adult children, the answer to that question is non-medical in-home Alzheimer’s care from Mind & Mobility. Many seniors in the early or middle stages of Alzheimer’s Disease can receive affordable care at home, especially when compared to the costs of nursing homes or assisted living facilities.

At Mind & Mobility, our specially trained memory caregivers provide dignified care in the comforting environment of home on a recurring basis that fits best with you and your senior loved one’s needs. We understand the significant burdens you bear when a family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

As such, our compassionate approach to Alzheimer’s in-home care services helps families manage the disease by:

  • Maintaining as much independence as possible by allowing your senior to stay in the familiar, comforting environment of home.
  • Providing reliable, high-quality Alzheimer’s care services to maintain your parent’s dignity and provide relief to family caregivers.

How Mind & Mobility Caregivers Help Loved Ones with Alzheimer's

Our in-home care services for Alzheimer’s cater to those who want to stay in their homes as they age but require ongoing care that loved ones cannot provide. Nowadays, most seniors prefer to live away from long-term care facilities and closer to home where they feel most at ease. That’s especially true when a senior is experiencing cognitive decline or is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Our professional, highly-trained caregivers help your senior loved one maintain dignity and quality of life with Alzheimer’s in a number of ways.

Alzheimer’s patients have specific physical and mental needs and require ongoing engagement. Clinical studies have shown that engaging in familiar activities at home could help slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s, especially when compared to long bouts of inactivity. Our caregivers understand that fact and take the necessary time to interact with your senior loved one in a purposeful, gentle manner.

An Alzheimer’s caregiver from Mind & Mobility provides assistance with day-to-day living service, prioritizing one-on-one attention and interaction, which is key to providing the best dementia and Alzheimer's care possible. Some of the tasks our caregivers help with include the following:
  • Social Engagement
  • Mental Stimulation
  • Grooming, Dressing, and Toileting
  • Transportation to Doctor Appointments
  • Grocery Shopping
  • Meal Planning
  • Medication Reminders
  • Maintaining a Safe Home Environment Free of Hazards
  • Keeping a Regular Routine to Minimize Agitation
  • Much More

At Mind & Mobility, our non-medical Alzheimer's caregivers know how to mentally engage dementia patients. Some of the activities that provide active mental stimulation include the following:
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Reading
  • Viewing Family Photos
  • Playing Board Games Like Bingo
  • Singing Songs
  • Figuring Out Jigsaw Puzzles
  • Listening to Music
  • Much More
Our caregivers always take a supportive, flexible approach to your senior’s Alzheimer's care and understand that this disease affects each person differently. That’s why we offer a range of mental stimulation activities that keep seniors engaged so that their neurons continue to fire.

The impact of Alzheimer's Disease often involves a decline in mental cognition while the body remains seemingly strong. Inactivity can lead to a decline in overall health, potentially resulting in complex medical issues or life-threatening infections. It is crucial to keep individuals with Alzheimer's active and moving to maintain their current health for as long as possible. Our experienced caregivers understand that each patient's level of activity depends on their physical capabilities. For instance, a person in a wheelchair may engage in modified sitting exercises. We assess each situation and promote moderate activity to keep individuals physically engaged, which in turn supports cognitive function. A few of the most common physical activities our caregivers provide for Alzheimer’s patients include:
  • Going on Walks
  • Swimming
  • Bed Exercises
  • Standing Exercises
  • Seated Exercises
  • Grocery Shopping
  • Light Household Chores
  • Gardening
  • Dancing
  • Much More
We understand that caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia can be demanding and overwhelming for caregivers. That’s why we offer adaptable Alzheimer’s care assistance – to help alleviate your caregiving responsibilities for a temporary or extended duration when you need it most. Contact Mind & Mobility today to learn more about in-home care for your loved one with Alzheimer's Disease.
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Compassionate Care When You Need It the Most

At Mind & Mobility Home Care, we take pride in our commitment to helping older adults maintain a high-quality life. Our team of senior caregivers cares deeply about the well-being of our clients and works together to craft personalized services that are backed by research and experience.

Our home care services are designed to support clients in various ways. Whether it's recovering from hip surgery, preventing falls, enhancing cognitive abilities through brain training, or pursuing new hobbies, you can rest easy knowing we have your senior's health and happiness at heart.

Of course, every one of our clients has their own unique needs and goals, and we adjust their levels of care accordingly. But one aspect of our home care services never changes - and that's the compassionate care we provide to seniors so that they may remain independent.

Contact Mind & Mobility today to take the first step toward aging gracefully at home. We'll be there by your side every step of the way.

THRIVE PROGRAM

When our clients choose to trust Mind & Mobility with their in-home care needs, they are not merely signing up for personal care assistance and supervision so that they are safe and supported as they age. There are many agencies and facilities that can provide that. They are choosing Mind & Mobility to provide safety and support so they can THRIVE in their own home. They are choosing our team of caregivers to support and engage with them so their life continues to be filled with purpose, meaningful relationships, and happiness. Why Mind & Mobility is different is our caregiver’s mindset and programmatic approach. If you take away all decisions and all physical difficulties from the client, that's not CARE-GIVING, that's CARE-TAKING. If you take away all obstacles from someone, you progressively take away their ability to overcome those obstacles. The Mind & Mobility team provides supportive activities, for both the mind and body, that maintains the tools the clients need to continue to lead the purposeful and joyful life they choose.

THRIVE PROGRAM has 3 interconnected components: Mind, Mobility, Engagement

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Latest News in Grand Rapids, MI

Your Grand Rapids Weekend Guide: March 7-10

Looking for something fun to take part in this weekend? The city of Grand Rapids is showcasing a diverse array of events, concerts, and experiences for residents and visitors alike!March 7-10Les Misérables for the 21st CenturyFor those looking for a cultural experience, Broadway Grand Rapids presents Les Misérables, currently on stage at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids through, Sunday March 10. This Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon has been hailed by Huffington Post as &ldqu...

Looking for something fun to take part in this weekend? The city of Grand Rapids is showcasing a diverse array of events, concerts, and experiences for residents and visitors alike!

March 7-10Les Misérables for the 21st Century

For those looking for a cultural experience, Broadway Grand Rapids presents Les Misérables, currently on stage at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids through, Sunday March 10. This Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon has been hailed by Huffington Post as “Les Mis for the 21st Century.”

Set against the backdrop of nineteenth century France, the musical tells a captivating story of broken dreams, unrequited love, passion, sacrifice, and redemption. Featuring a magnificent score that includes beloved songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” and “Bring Him Home,” Les Misérables is a timeless testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Tickets are still available through the end of the weekend, offering a perfect opportunity for audiences of all ages to enjoy this unforgettable production.

Rush tickets for student and educators are available at $30 with a valid school ID, subject to availability. The limit is two tickets per person. There are tickets available for evening performances Thursday, March 7- Sunday, March 10, and for matinees on Saturday and Sunday.

March 7-10Live Music at Pyramid Scheme

For those seeking a more lively evening, The Pyramid Scheme (one of my favorite venues in town) provides a vibrant atmosphere for young adults looking to enjoy live music and socialize with friends. On Thursday, March 7, enjoy indie synth music with Ethereal, Odd Space, and Vert Terms. Friday, March 8, brings a night of metal with Throne, Drink Their Blood, Attrition Cult, and MDOP. Saturday, March 9, features the metal band Still Remains. Finally, on Sunday, March 10, unwind with 2000s pop rock from Midwest Skies, Years Later, and When The Sun Sets, along with a performance by singer-songwriter Melissa Dylan. The Pyramid Scheme is located at 68 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids. For information on show times and pricing, visit pyramidschemebar.com.

March 9Mandela: The Official Exhibition

For a more educational experience, consider visiting Mandela: The Official Exhibition at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Opening to the public on March 9, running through May 26, this immersive exhibit offers a unique insight into the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. Through exclusive photos, film, and personal effects from the Mandela family’s collection, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of this iconic figure. Many of these items are being displayed outside of South Africa for the first time, making this exhibition a must-see for history enthusiasts of all ages. Mandela: The Official Exhibition is included with general admission to the museum, offering an enriching experience for the whole family. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids. For information on museum hours, pricing and parking, visit grpm.org.

March 10Slithering Sunday at Grand Rapids Downtown Market

The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is gearing up for an exciting event this weekend with its first-ever Slithering Sunday on March 10. Aimed at children and families, this unique event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Greenhouse and Banquet Room. Attendees will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with live critters, including turtles, snakes, gators, and other non-furry friends.

The event aims to be both fun and educational, with experts on hand to share insights into these creatures’ habitats, food sources, and other fascinating facts. Slithering Sunday is free to attend and promises to be a memorable experience for all. Grand Rapids Downtown Market is located at 435 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids. Visit the website for more information.

AI software translates GRPS vlogs into Spanish

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids Public Schools is now using artificial intelligence software to translate videos and better reach Spanish-speaking families in the district.The Spanish video blogs of Superintendent Leadriane Roby are posted on the district w...

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids Public Schools is now using artificial intelligence software to translate videos and better reach Spanish-speaking families in the district.

The Spanish video blogs of Superintendent Leadriane Roby are posted on the district website in addition to the original English version.

The videos are uploaded to a website that processes the clip and creates the new version. GRPS pays $1,500 a year for the subscription.

News 8 spoke with Roby Tuesday as she was recording an upcoming video.

“We were missing a target audience when we did not have an access point for them,” Roby said. “The first time that I saw it. I was like, that person’s voice sounds like me and even kind of the intonation and different things and I was like, ‘How did they do that?’ and so I was amazed by it.”

The superintendent does not speak Spanish but about 40% of the students in the district do and 28% say it is their preferred language at home.

The videos also make it clear AI was used, according to Leon Hendrix, the executive director of communications.

“We want to make sure that folks know that this is a computer-assisted translation so we put that right on screen anytime we use this,” Hendrix said.

As impressive as the technology may be, Hendrix said it is not putting GRPS translators out of work.

“We also make sure this message is reviewed by someone who is a native Spanish speaker for accuracy, for clarity, before it’s ever published,” Hendrix said.

GRPS is also looking for ways the software can be used to help students learn.

“In education, we’re always learning and growing and we have to embrace technology. We can’t be afraid of it because what ends up happening is we kind of put up these barriers of we can’t do anything with it or we’re afraid to kind of engage in it and our young people sometimes get ahead of us and we should be learning right along with them,” Roby said.

Ultimate Sport Show has something for beginners and experts alike

The show will span four acres and include everything you need to get outdoors this spring and summer.GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Ultimate Sport Show is back at DeVos Place for its 79th year, bringing hands-on demonstrations and acres of outdoor sporting gear to Grand Rapids.The show includes everything you need to get outdoors this spring and summer.Hunting and fishing experts will be giving regular seminars on Lake Ultimate, a 110,000 gallon poo...

The show will span four acres and include everything you need to get outdoors this spring and summer.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Ultimate Sport Show is back at DeVos Place for its 79th year, bringing hands-on demonstrations and acres of outdoor sporting gear to Grand Rapids.

The show includes everything you need to get outdoors this spring and summer.

Hunting and fishing experts will be giving regular seminars on Lake Ultimate, a 110,000 gallon pool stocked with fish, to help attendees learn more about their craft.

One of those experts is Mark Romanack, an executive producer at Fishing 411 TV, which films shows all around the Great Lakes region. Romanack will do walleye seminars throughout the show and his son will do salmon seminars.

He said attending seminars to learn more can help you reel in more fish.

"Education is the key to being successful in anything that you're gonna do, whatever your pursuit might be. When it comes to fishing, the more education that you can absorb, the better fisherman you're gonna be," Romanack said.

He said watching demonstrations at the Ultimate Sport Show is an experience like no other.

"Our seminars will be multimedia so we use video to get the message across in our seminars, but Lake Ultimate, this is unlike anything you'll ever find anywhere else in the country."

Another area that will host hands-on seminars is the Hawg Trough, a mobile aquarium stocked with fish to help demonstrate fly fishing techniques and show how different types of bait can attract your next catch.

Show manager Ben Neilsen said the demonstrations can make a big difference in helping visitors improve.

"It's one thing when somebody tells you what to do, but when they're showing you what to do and actually, you're seeing results from it, it kinda adds to that seminar experience," he said.

Ultimate Sport Show returns to DeVos Place

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The show isn't just for outdoors enthusiasts! There will be plenty of family-friendly activities and events, like a rock climbing wall, lumberjack shows, a virtual fishing simulator and a trout pond.

Romanack said the show has something for everyone regardless of age or experience.

"I think that's the one nice thing about fishing, is it appeals to all age groups. Literally you can be simplistic about it, a bobber and a worm if you want, or you can be complicated and very sophisticated about it, and everything in between," he said. "So from ages of 5 to 95, there's something for fishing at the Ultimate Sport Show."

There will also be the opportunity for shopping and talking to vendors. A selection of boats, off-road vehicles, fishing poles and other outdoor gear will be set up throughout the convention center.

The show kicks off Thursday, March 7 and runs through Sunday, March 10. On Thursday, you can bring six nonperishable food items to donate to the nonprofit Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger to receive admission.

You can learn more about the Ultimate Sport Show and get your tickets here.

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Grand Rapids asks residents for feedback on city services in survey

Grand Rapids' National Community Survey (NCS) is available for residents to complete through March 21.GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Calling all Grand Rapids residents!The City of Grand Rapids is inviting the community to share how they feel about city services, programs, events and facilities through a survey once again.Grand Rapids' National Community Survey (NCS) is available ...

Grand Rapids' National Community Survey (NCS) is available for residents to complete through March 21.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Calling all Grand Rapids residents!

The City of Grand Rapids is inviting the community to share how they feel about city services, programs, events and facilities through a survey once again.

Grand Rapids' National Community Survey (NCS) is available here through March 21.

The survey includes 31 questions about quality of life, quality of city services, customer service experience, characteristics and opportunities in the community and more. It takes about 15 minutes to complete.

In February, the city mailed 2,200 surveys to randomly selected households for a representative sample of Grand Rapids residents. Those who received the survey in the mail are asked to respond via the link on the letter that was included with the survey, or by mailing the completed survey to the address listed in the letter.

City staff will compare the results of this year's survey to those received in the 2022 NCS survey to see how they measure against the priorities listed in the city's strategic plan.

During the 2025 fiscal year, the Grand Rapids City Commission will use the results in budget discussions.

Survey responses are kept anonymous. Those with questions can call the city’s 311 Customer Service at (616) 456-3000 or email info@grcity.us.

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Grand Rapids Civic Theatre Announces 2024-2025 Season

With the end of one season comes another!On March 5, 2024, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre announced the full lineup of shows for the 2024-2025 season!Let's take a look at it!Get our free mobile appThis upcoming season"To celebrate 98 years of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, we’re kicking off the season in a sparkly and spooky fashion on Friday the 13th of September with a cult classic more than 50 years old, and in June w...

With the end of one season comes another!

On March 5, 2024, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre announced the full lineup of shows for the 2024-2025 season!

Let's take a look at it!

Get our free mobile app

This upcoming season

"To celebrate 98 years of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, we’re kicking off the season in a sparkly and spooky fashion on Friday the 13th of September with a cult classic more than 50 years old, and in June we’re wrapping up with the ground-breaking and history-making Sara Bareilles musical making its Michigan community theatre premiere. In between you’ll find a special engagement for Young Audiences with an entirely “Pick Your Price” run, a beloved musical classic and a wild and witty mystery – both never before seen on the Civic stage, a teen story of rivalry and friendship, the West Michigan community theatre premiere of a powerful tale of personal awakening based on a beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, and the return of the Ten For All playwriting festival."

The Rocky Horror Show - September 13-October 6, 2024

This cult classic is kicking off Civic's 2024-2025 season!

"In this cult classic more than 50 years old, sweethearts Brad and Janet, stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker and a creepy butler. Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Music, lyrics and book by Richard O‘Brien. This production of The Rocky Horror Show is a Grand Rapids Civic Theatre first!"

READ MORE: Broadway Grand Rapids Announces Exciting 2024-25 Schedule

A Year With Frog and Toad - October 15-19 2024

Besides being an amazing show, this entire performance run will be "Pick Your Price." So, you will be able to pick the price you want to pay to see the show.

"Waking from hibernation in the Spring, Frog and Toad plant gardens, swim, rake leaves, go sledding, and learn life lessons along the way. The two best friends celebrate and rejoice in the differences that make them unique and special. Part vaudeville, part make-believe… all charm."

CATS - November 15 - December 15, 2024

This upcoming season's holiday show will be CATS.

"One of the world’s best-known and meow-velous musicals! The Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year – the night of the Jellicle Ball. One by one they tell their stories for the amusement of Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, who must choose one of the Cats to ascend to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a whole new Jellicle life. Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber; Based on Old Possum’s Book Of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot."

The 39 Steps - January 17 - February 2, 2025

"Mix an Alfred Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel by John Buchan, add a dash of Monty Python and you have The 39 Steps, a fast-paced whodunit adapted by Patrick Barlow. This entertaining play features a riotous blend of nonstop laughs, over 150 zany characters (played by a cast of four), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance!"

Disney's Camp Rock The Musical - February 28-March 16, 2025

Based on the infamous Disney Channel movie that launched the careers of Demi Lovato and The Jonas Brothers, Camp Rock The Musical is one for the whole family.

"A classic story of rivalry and power, Disney’s Camp Rock The Musical opens with Mitchie and her friends arriving at Camp Rock, ready to spend another summer jamming out and having the time of their lives. But the new, flashy Camp Star across the lake now threatens Camp Rock’s very existence. To keep the doors open, Mitchie steps up, rallies her fellow Camp Rockers and gets them into top shape for the ultimate showdown!"

Here is one of the songs that may be in the show.

The Color Purple - April 18-May 4, 2025

After the iconic movie was released last year, it makes sense why it is time for The Color Purple to grace the Civic mainstage.

"The Color Purple is an inspiring family saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who, through love, finds the strength to triumph over adversity and discover her unique voice in the world. This musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel (and the popular 1985 Steven Spielberg film) spotlights Celie, a downtrodden young woman whose personal awakening over the course of 40 years forms the arc of this epic story. With a joyous score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, African music and blues, The Color Purple is a story of hope, a testament to the healing power of love and a celebration of life. With a book by Marsha Norman and music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s production of The Color Purple is a West Michigan community theatre premiere."

Ten For All

Ten For All is a special Civic event that is happening this year as well.

"Back for its 5th year, the Ten For All festival will once again present original world premiere 10-minute plays written by West Michigan playwrights. Plays are anonymously read and scored and the top Semi-Finalist scripts in each category are read live on stage. Those Semi-Finalists are then adjudicated by local theatre experts and media and business leaders and then one finalist in each category is named. The finalists’ plays are then fully produced, staged, and performed during the premiere event, and audience members vote to give one playwright the coveted “Audience Choice” Award."

Waitress - June 6-29 2025

To end off the season with one of the most popular Broadway shows right now, Waitress!

According to the website,

"Brought to life on Broadway by a groundbreaking all-female creative team, Waitress features original music and lyrics by six-time Grammy nominee Sara Bareilles, and a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson. Waitress is inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film and offers a special recipe for finding happiness in unexpected places. Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, is stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop… until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. Supported by her quirky crew of fellow waitresses and loyal customers, Jenna summons the secret ingredient she’s been missing all along — courage. Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s production of Waitress is a Michigan community theatre premiere."

This trailer gives you a sneak peek of what Waitress is like.

If any of these shows interest you, you can purchase season passes now.

Full Exclusive Interview with Noddea Skidmore, Civic's Director of Marketing and Communications

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